WATCH: Jay Carney scolds high school intern over Zimmerman question

3 years ago

(Jason Howerton) A high school intern with the conservative Daily Caller is already on White House Press Secretary Jay Carney’s bad side after asking if the White House plans to protect George Zimmerman and his family amid the multiple death threats they have received following his acquittal on murder and manslaughter charges in the death of Trayvon Martin.

“Because of the death threats being received by George Zimmerman and his parents, is the president going to take any action for their security or are they on their own?” the intern, Gabe Finger, asked.

Carney at first humored the high school student, referring him to local law enforcement in Florida. Carney said he had not heard of the reports about death threats against Zimmerman and his family.

“So they’re on their own?” Finger pressed.

“You can editorialize all you want and I have no doubt that you will, but that is a ridiculous statement,” an annoyed Carney shot back.

To be fair, the question was seemingly based on a false choice — that the White House is either going to protect Zimmerman and his family or leave them “on their own.” Further, the White House offering protection to a private citizen and his family would be unusual in a case like this (local law enforcement would provide necessary protection). But did Carney really need to lash out in such a condescending manner to any reporter? Most would probably say no.